Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) | Salary 2025


    November 20, 2024
    how to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner

    In this guide, we’ll explain how to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner, what they do, the average psychiatric nurse practitioner's salary, and more. 

    Part One What is a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)?

    Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), also known as psychiatric nurse practitioners, are nurse practitioners who specialize in mental health treatment. They help patients suffering from mental illnesses, disorders, or substance abuse problems by assessing, diagnosing, and providing treatment plans to them. 

    Popular Online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Programs

    Sponsored
    Chamberlain University

    Chamberlain University is the #1 largest school of nursing with a community of more than 177,000 students, faculty, and alumni. Chamberlain offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs online and has a long history of successfully delivering top quality education.

    Accreditation
    CCNE
    Location
    Online
    Prerequisite
    RN Required

    Enrollment: Nationwide

    Walden University

    Earn your nursing degree from one of the largest nursing education providers in the U.S. Walden University’s BSN, MSN, post-master’s APRN certificate, and DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Get enhanced practicum support with our Practicum Pledge.

    Accreditation
    CCNE
    Location
    Online
    Prerequisite
    RN Required

    Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, ND, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.

    Western Governors University

    WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE-accredited, nonprofit university offering bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing, with the additional distinction of being named a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing. Join a trusted, accredited online university to accelerate your nursing career on your schedule. Scholarships and financial aid are available. 

    Accreditation
    CCNE
    Location
    Online
    Prerequisite
    RN Required

    Enrollment: Nationwide

    Wilkes University

    Whether you are beginning your career, looking to change your career or desire an advanced degree, Wilkes University Passan School of Nursing is the place for you. With a more than 40-year history of educating nurses, our school has a strong commitment to the professional practice of nursing. Faculty and staff are dedicated and resourceful providing students with personalized attention.

    Accreditation
    CCNE
    Location
    Online
    Prerequisite
    RN Required

    Enrollment: Nationwide

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    Part Two What Do Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners Do?

    PMHNPs take care of patients suffering from a variety of mental illnesses and disorders. Psychiatric nurse practitioner duties will vary based on where they work, but they often  include: 

    1. Diagnosing and treating common acute psychiatric problems, illnesses, and crises
    2. Psychopharmacologic management in collaboration with a psychiatrist
    3. Providing individual, group, and family psychotherapy
    4. Caring for and counseling clients with commonly identified chronic psychiatric conditions
    5. Coordinating and integrating multidisciplinary services for clients with complex psychiatric problems
    6. Monitoring common healthcare problems and referring to specialized medical treatment as needed
    7. Providing comprehensive family psychiatric-mental health education
    8. Performing or recommending age-appropriate screening procedures
    9. Promoting wellness-oriented self-care
    10. Being an advocate for family psychiatric-mental health clients and their families

    Illnesses and Disorders that Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners Treat

    Psychiatric nurse practitioners treat a wide variety of mental illnesses and disorders, including:

    1. Anxiety
    2. Depression
    3. Bipolar, manic-depressive states
    4. Eating disorders
    5. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
    6. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
    7. Substance abuse 
    8. Panic Disorders
    9. Dementia
    10. Autism Spectrum Disorder 
    11. Schizophrenia
    12. Personality disorders
    13. Trauma, PTSD, adjustment disorders

    >> Show Me Online Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs

    Part Three How to Become a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner 

    To become a psychiatric nurse Practitioner, you’ll need to complete the following steps. 

    Step 1: Attend Nursing School

    You’ll need to earn either an ADN or a BSN from an accredited nursing program in order to take the first steps to becoming a registered nurse. ADN-prepared nurses will need to take the additional step of either completing their BSN degree or entering into an accelerated RN to MSN program, which will let them earn their BSN and MSN at the same time.

    Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN

    Become a Registered Nurse by passing the NCLEX examination.

    Step 3: Gain Experience or Continue Your Education

    Nurses can choose to gain some nursing experience before going back to school or go directly into an MSN program, depending on their unique situation. Most NP programs will require a minimum of TWO years of relevant work experience.

    Step 4: Graduate With Your Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Degree From an Accredited Nursing Program

    Enter into an MSN/NP program that offers a path to becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. You can select from several in-person or online PMHNP programs nationwide to suit your specific needs.

    If you already have a nurse practitioner degree, you can attend a PMHNP certificate program instead. These programs allow NPs to further specialize in mental health. Check out our guide to learn more about the shortest online PMHNP certificate programs.

    Step 5: Become Certified

    The American Nurses Credentialing Center offers the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) Certification (PMHNP-BC).

    Step 6: Get a Job as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    Now you’re ready to start working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner!

    Popular Online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Programs

    Sponsored
    Chamberlain University

    Chamberlain University is the #1 largest school of nursing with a community of more than 177,000 students, faculty, and alumni. Chamberlain offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs online and has a long history of successfully delivering top quality education.

    Accreditation
    CCNE
    Location
    Online
    Prerequisite
    RN Required

    Enrollment: Nationwide

    Walden University

    Earn your nursing degree from one of the largest nursing education providers in the U.S. Walden University’s BSN, MSN, post-master’s APRN certificate, and DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Get enhanced practicum support with our Practicum Pledge.

    Accreditation
    CCNE
    Location
    Online
    Prerequisite
    RN Required

    Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, ND, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.

    Western Governors University

    WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE-accredited, nonprofit university offering bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing, with the additional distinction of being named a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing. Join a trusted, accredited online university to accelerate your nursing career on your schedule. Scholarships and financial aid are available. 

    Accreditation
    CCNE
    Location
    Online
    Prerequisite
    RN Required

    Enrollment: Nationwide

    Wilkes University

    Whether you are beginning your career, looking to change your career or desire an advanced degree, Wilkes University Passan School of Nursing is the place for you. With a more than 40-year history of educating nurses, our school has a strong commitment to the professional practice of nursing. Faculty and staff are dedicated and resourceful providing students with personalized attention.

    Accreditation
    CCNE
    Location
    Online
    Prerequisite
    RN Required

    Enrollment: Nationwide

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    Part Four PMHNP Jobs

    Due to high demand in several sectors, becoming a PMHNP is one of the easiest nurse practitioner specialties to get into. PMHNPs can work in several environments, including:

    1. Academia
    2. Community Mental Health Centers (urban and rural)
    3. Consulting with businesses and communities
    4. Correctional Facilities
    5. Domestic Violence Shelters
    6. Government Agency
    7. Home Health Agencies
    8. Hospitals
    9. In-patient Psychiatric Facilities
    10. Primary Healthcare Clinics
    11. Private Psychiatric Practices
    12. Psychopharmacology Clinic
    13. Psychiatric Consult Services
    14. Public health agencies
    15. Residential Substance Abuse Facilities
    16. Schools
    17. State Psychiatric Facilities
    18. Student Health Clinics
    19. Urban Nurse-Managed Clinic
    20. Veterans Administration Psychiatric Facilities

    Part Five Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Salary

    As with other types of nurse practitioners, Psychiatric NPS can expect to earn salaries on the higher end of the spectrum. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for nurse practitioners is $126,260 per year as of May 2023.

    However, the BLS does not differentiate between different types of Nurse Practitioners. But, according to Indeed, the average psychiatric nurse practitioner salary is $149,061.

    Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Salary by Years of Experience

    Psychiatric NPs can earn a higher annual salary with increased years of experience. Per Payscale.com, this is how much people are earning at different levels of experience in 2024: 

    1. Less than 1 years of experience earn an average salary of $111,976
    2. 1-4 years of experience earn an average salary of $121,049
    3. 5-9 years of experience earns an average salary of $125,755
    4. 10-19 years of experience earns an average salary of $129,307
    5. 20+ years of experience earns an average salary of $131,615

    Highest Paying Cities for Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners

    In 2025, the highest-paying cities for Psychiatric NPs, according to Indeed, are:

    1. Chattanooga, TN - $232,909
    2. Baltimore, MD - $220,652
    3. Portland, OR - $209,260
    4. Seattle, WA - $202,865
    5. Waterbury, CT - $200,645

    Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Job Benefits

    Regardless of workplace setting, full-time and part-time nurses enjoy similar benefits. While actual benefits may vary depending on the institution, most include the following:

    1. Health insurance
    2. Certification Reimbursement      
    3. Retirement Options
    4. Holiday Pay
    5. Family Leave of Absence
    6. Maternity Leave
    7. Dental Insurance
    8. Dependent health insurance coverage
    9. Life Insurance
    10. Paid time off
    11. Relocation assistance
    12. Childcare
    13. Bereavement leave       
    14. Vision Insurance        
    15. Discounts on extracurricular activities      
    16. Continuing Education Reimbursement
    17. Relocation packages
    18. Attendance at nursing conferences

    >> Show Me Online Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs

    Part Six Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs

    We’ve rounded up some of the top Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner programs, also called Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) programs. Below are five of the top programs available for getting your PMHNP education. Check out our article on the Top Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs for the full list and more information. 

    1. 1. University of Pennsylvania
    2. 2. Rush University
    3. 3. University of Washington
    4. 4. University of California – San Francisco
    5. 5. Yale University

    Part Seven PMHNP Continuing Education Requirements

    PMHNP CEU hours will vary based on the state of licensure. For each state an individual is licensed, CEU hours will be required. Generally, NPs are required a minimum of 75 contact hours of continuing education in the specialty area (psychiatric nursing).

    Additionally, even though they are functioning in an APRN role, they must maintain their RN certification.  In order for an individual to renew their RN license, they will need to fill out an application, complete a specific number of CEU hours, and pay a nominal fee. Each state has specific requirements, and it is important to check with the board of nursing prior to applying for license renewal.

    A detailed look at Continuing Nurse Education hours can be found here

    Part Eight Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Career Outlook

    According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the career outlook for NPs is excellent. From 2023 to 2033 there is predicted to be a 46% growth in employment for NPs, which is MUCH faster than the average for all occupations.  

    The American Association of Nurse Practitioners estimates that approximately 25,025 or only 6.5% of all practicing NPs are certified in psychiatric mental health. As mental health disorders continue to rise in the United States, Psychiatric Mental Health NPs continue to be needed. 

    >> Show Me Online Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs

    Part Nine Resources

    1. Top Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs
    2. How to Become a Psychiatric Nurse
    3. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Salary Guide
    4. 10 Cheapest Online PMHNP Certificate Programs
    5. Top One-Year Online PMHNP Programs

    Part Ten Other Nurse Practitioner Specialties

    1. General Nurse Practitioner
    2. Family Nurse Practitioner
    3. Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner
    4. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
    5. Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
    6. Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
    7. Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
    8. Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner
    9. Emergency Nurse Practitioner
    10. Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
    11. Oncology Nurse Practitioner

    Popular Online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Programs

    Sponsored
    Chamberlain University

    Chamberlain University is the #1 largest school of nursing with a community of more than 177,000 students, faculty, and alumni. Chamberlain offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs online and has a long history of successfully delivering top quality education.

    Accreditation
    CCNE
    Location
    Online
    Prerequisite
    RN Required

    Enrollment: Nationwide

    Walden University

    Earn your nursing degree from one of the largest nursing education providers in the U.S. Walden University’s BSN, MSN, post-master’s APRN certificate, and DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Get enhanced practicum support with our Practicum Pledge.

    Accreditation
    CCNE
    Location
    Online
    Prerequisite
    RN Required

    Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, ND, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.

    Western Governors University

    WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE-accredited, nonprofit university offering bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing, with the additional distinction of being named a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing. Join a trusted, accredited online university to accelerate your nursing career on your schedule. Scholarships and financial aid are available. 

    Accreditation
    CCNE
    Location
    Online
    Prerequisite
    RN Required

    Enrollment: Nationwide

    Wilkes University

    Whether you are beginning your career, looking to change your career or desire an advanced degree, Wilkes University Passan School of Nursing is the place for you. With a more than 40-year history of educating nurses, our school has a strong commitment to the professional practice of nursing. Faculty and staff are dedicated and resourceful providing students with personalized attention.

    Accreditation
    CCNE
    Location
    Online
    Prerequisite
    RN Required

    Enrollment: Nationwide

    Part Eleven FAQs

    • How long does it take to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner?

      • From the start of undergraduate education to the completion of an Advanced Practice NP degree, an individual can expect it to take a minimum of 10 years.  
    • What can you do as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner?

      • Psychiatric NPs assess and diagnose patients suffering from mental illnesses, disorders, and substance abuse problems. They are involved in psychotherapy, can prescribe medication, educate patients and families about their diagnosis, and manage their treatment plans. PMHNP can expect to treat patients suffering from the following conditions: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, and personality disorders. 
    • How much do Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners make?

      • According to Indeed, the average Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner salary is $149,061 per year.
    • What is the difference between a Psychiatrist and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner?

      • A psychiatric nurse practitioner vs psychiatrist comparison reveals major differences in education, training, and title. Psychiatrists are physicians who attended medical school and a psychiatry fellowship. PMHNPs are APRNs who completed a graduate nursing program. 
    $100,000+ DNP NP MSN Psychiatric Non-Bedside PMHNP
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